The conquest of Algeria was easy, but holding it became a nightmare. Politicians cut the budget and withdrew troops before Algeria was under control. A religious zealot arose and rallied the tribes. French columns marched around, attacked by thousands of Arab horsemen, who outnumbered them by 10 to 1. Though they survived the battles, they died by the score from poor logistics and political decisions that gave them orders that were impossible to complete in light of the resources at hand. Two sieges, one of which was a horrendous failure. Numerous battles. Orders of battle for the French forces and several columns are included.